Progressive Movement Key Concepts

The Progressive Movement emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as a response to social issues in American life. Progressives believed in improving society through government intervention and reforms. They addressed problems like child labor and women's labor conditions, advocating for political and social reforms. The movement was diverse, with reformers from various backgrounds, and included grassroots efforts motivated by religious beliefs.

What was the common assumption among progressives about American society?

• That it should return to 18th-century values

• That it was better than European societies

• That it had significant social issues needing attention

• That it was perfect and needed no changes

What did progressives believe about society's potential for improvement?

• It was limited and unchangeable

• It could progress through human intervention

• It was already at its peak

• It should regress to simpler times

How did progressives view the role of government in society?

• As a tool to be feared and avoided

• As a means to ensure social progress

• As a barrier to economic growth

• As irrelevant to societal improvement

How did the view of government change from the 18th to the 20th century according to progressives?

• From a feared entity to a tool for progress

• From a supportive role to a feared entity

• From a neutral body to a religious institution

• From a local focus to an international one

What was one of the main focuses of progressives at the local and state levels?

• Reducing taxes for the wealthy

• Cleaning up political corruption

• Promoting international trade

• Expanding the military

What was a key target of political reforms during the Progressive Movement?

• Centralizing government power

• Eliminating political parties

• Increasing political participation

• Reducing the voting age

What was the state of child labor laws in the first half of the 19th century?

• Strictly enforced

• Only applicable to urban areas

• Non-existent

• Focused on education

What was a significant issue for women workers during the Progressive Era?

• Voting rights

• Equal pay for equal work

• Lack of labor laws protecting pregnant women

• Access to higher education

What motivated many grassroots reformers during the Progressive Movement?

• Religious reasons

• Economic gain

• Political power

• Technological advancement

What was a common motivation for reformers at the grassroots level?

• Desire for political office

• Technological innovation

• Religious beliefs

• Economic incentives